Where to Stay in Malta: Best Areas and Hotels

Where to Stay in Malta: Best Areas and Hotels

Wondering where to stay in Malta? The island of Malta, located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, and its smaller sister islands, Gozo and Comino, are often referred to as the jewels of the Mediterranean.

The islands offer year-round sunny weather and beautiful beaches. Dive into Malta’s most beautiful waters and discover its natural treasures. Malta is the largest of the islands, while Gozo is loved for its slow pace and rural lifestyle. The smallest island, Comino, is mostly uninhabited and popular for day trips.

This post will help you find the best places to stay in Malta, whether you’re a first-time visitor, looking for hotels near the beach, or planning a family trip.

Where to Stay in Malta

1. Sliema – For Affordable Hotels

Where to stay in Malta for the first time? In Sliema, you can enjoy bustling city life on the waterfront, swimming and sunbathing on the rocky beach that stretches along most of Sliema’s coastline. You do not need a car to stay in this area as everything is within walking distance.

The country has a well-connected public transport system, so we recommend purchasing a Tallinja Card, which will give you easy access to the main attractions further away. If you’re looking for hotels with the best views in Malta, stay in the south or east of Sliema. From here the ferry is a few minutes’ walk, which takes you across the harbor to Valletta, probably the most scenic route to the capital.

Sliema is also popular for its cafes, shops, and restaurants, which line the promenade from Manoel Island to the edge of Balluta Bay in St Julian’s. Enjoy chilled cocktails during your stay in Malta and feel the cool summer breeze while watching the sailing boats and yachts in the harbor.

This is one of the best places to stay in Malta if you are visiting for the first time or looking for affordable hotels.

Waterfront Hotel

The Waterfront Hotel is in a perfect location, close to bus and ferry services to Valletta. It works in partnership with the Aqualuna complex across the street, giving hotel guests free use of the heated swimming pool. The hotel’s rooms and suites are stylish, modern, and equipped with all the expected amenities.

The 1Olive Grill rooftop terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine, dinner, and the view. Regatta’s restaurant serves everything from fresh fish to dried Maltese tomatoes, from their world-famous local olive oil to fresh Gozitan goat’s cheese. The Waterfront Hotel offers stunning sea views, making your stay in Malta even more enjoyable.

Photo credit: Waterfront Hotel

Amery House

Where to stay in Malta if you are looking for a quiet area but still want to be close to the best restaurants? Amery House is ideally located on a quiet street near the main road of Sliema. The location is wonderful. It is close to the beach, and there are many restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets nearby.

The bus stop is only a few minutes’ walk away. The rooms are clean and modern and have all amenities from a fridge, iron, coffee machine, and perfectly functioning air conditioning. All guests are offered a free continental breakfast made from local ingredients.

Photo credit: Amery House

1926 Le Soleil Hotel & Spa

The 1926 Le Soleil is perfectly located 500 meters from the ferry to Valletta, making it easily accessible on foot. The hotel’s Infinity Beach Club and heated rooftop pool offer a setting where you can admire the spectacle as the sun gently rises and sets around you.

The beautifully designed rooms and suites offer stunning views and top-quality amenities, providing maximum comfort and relaxation. A buffet breakfast is served, and the Michelin-starred restaurant on the 11th floor serves authentic cuisine and tempting drinks in an elegant setting. One of the best places to stay in Malta if you want to retreat, relax, and unwind by the sea.

Photo credit: 1926 Le Soleil Hotel & Spa

2. St. Julian’s – Best nightlife in Malta

Where to Stay in Malta for Nightlife? St. Julian’s, known for its nightlife, attracts many young party-goers and anyone looking to unwind in a beautiful waterfront town. It has plenty of stylish restaurants and bars and is also a great place for night-time waterfront walks. It is perfectly located for easy access to public transport, the airport, and the island’s main attractions.

The downside is that it is a little further from Valletta, so allow enough time to get there. But you’ll find good value for money hotels close to everything and with a seaside vibe.

This is the best area to stay in Malta if you like vibrant nightlife and parties.

be.HOTEL

Be.HOTEL in the heart of St Julian’s is one of the best places to stay in Malta, where the beach is within arm’s reach and shopping and nightlife are on your doorstep. Rooms and suites are designed to blend comfort and luxury seamlessly. Its indoor and rooftop pools are perfect for a relaxing swim or a refreshing dip and enjoying the surrounding landscapes.

The restaurant is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, with flavors of Italian, French, Spanish and Maltese cuisine. The menu offers everything from light salads to pasta and steaks. Whether you come for a long, lazy holiday or a quick weekend break, be.HOTEL is the perfect home away from home during your stay in Malta.

Photo credit: be.HOTEL

Mercure St. Julian’s

Where to stay in Malta for couples? Mercure St. Julian’s overlooks Spinola Bay and offers a rooftop pool, gym, and elegant rooms. The rooms are spacious, and some have sea views, which makes your days there even more wonderful when you wake up. The hotel is just a short walk from Malta’s best bars, casinos, restaurants, and clubs. There are also several bus stops near the hotel, which will get you to Valletta easily and cheaply.

Photo credit: Mercure St. Julian’s

Juliani Boutique Hotel

The Hotel Juliani Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of St Julian’s, with a magnificent bay view. Several bars and restaurants are nearby, and the bus stop is right in front of the hotel, making it easy to explore the Maltese islands. From the café terrace and the rooftop lounge, as well as from the rooms overlooking Spinola Bay, you can admire the colorful fishing boats floating in the Mediterranean.

A buffet breakfast is served, including fresh juices, a variety of coffee options, and eggs cooked to order. It offers a wide range of accommodation from standard rooms to suites to suit all budgets.

Photo credit: Juliani Boutique Hotel

3. Where to Stay in Malta without a Car – Valletta

You won’t need a car if you want to stay in Valletta. You can easily get to Sliema by ferry, from where most day trips to Comino or Gozo depart, or you can visit the three cities by Maltese gondola. For just a few euros, regular run Maltese gondolas will take you to the three cities, and you can explore the historic museums, narrow streets, and fortresses on your own.

If you are thinking about renting a car, you will have a hard time finding parking in Valletta, and if you do find one, it will probably not be near your hotel. Valletta has many boutique hotels with rooftop pools or hot tubs, offering stunning views and just a stone’s throw from most attractions.

Recommended post → Boutique Hotels in Valletta

This is the most atmospheric area to stay in Malta, and you can easily spend 3 days exploring the city’s rich history and culture.

The Embassy Valletta

Where to stay in Malta if you’re looking for rooftop pool hotels with views of the old town of Valletta? The Embassy Valletta provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, room service, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. This 4-star hotel offers 81 spacious rooms designed and prepared to appease the most discerning guests.

All rooms have air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a safety deposit box, a private bathroom with a shower or bathtub, free toiletries, and a hairdryer.

Photo credit: The Embassy Valletta

Palais Le Brun

Palais Le Brun is located right in the heart of the historical area of Valletta, only two blocks from the central square. You will enjoy the privacy of this quiet 2000 square meter palace comprising 39 luxury rooms, a rooftop terrace with a pool deck, and a fitness center.

Rooms at Palais Le Brun are spacious, elegant, and comfortable. From the marble bathrooms to the 42-inch TVs, the rooms have all the extra luxurious touches to ensure maximum comfort. This is one of the best places to stay with your family or partner.

Photo credit: Palais Le Brun

Casa Ellul

Casa Ellul is one of the best hotels in Malta with a rooftop Jacuzzi. It is located in a quiet street yet within walking distance of all attractions. With only 9 suites, Casa Ellul caters to discerning guests and offers a highly personalized service, including exclusive amenities, discreet service, and individual attention.

The air-conditioned suites are equipped with modern technology appliances and an electric kettle. The private, spacious bathrooms come with a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Photo credit: Casa Ellul

4. Where to Stay in Malta for Beaches – Mellieha

One of the most picturesque towns in Malta, Mellieha is famous for its beautiful beaches, historic sights, charming churches, and the unmissable village of Popeye. Mellieha Bay is one of the largest sandy beaches and a favorite spot for families, couples, and water sports lovers.

The location couldn’t be better, with bus stops nearby for those who don’t rent a car, and you can get almost anywhere for very cheap. The beach is just a few minutes drive or bus ride from the city, but if you want to explore other beaches, we recommend Golden Bay.

You can easily spend a whole day kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving. If you want to stay here, we recommend the Radisson Blu Resort, with its magical sea views. We also recommend the seaside town of St. Paul’s Bay, which also offers many accommodation options.

Head to the ferry terminal by bus or car and spend a lazy day on the picturesque island of Comino with a cocktail or exploring the calm and peaceful places of Gozo. Don’t miss the nearby village of Popeye, which offers great activities for everyone, or enjoy the cliff-top viewpoint over Anchor Bay.

This is one of the best places to stay in Malta if you want to be close to the beaches.

Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa

Where to stay in Malta with family? Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa is an excellent 4-star hotel, perfectly located overlooking the sea. Its award-winning spa provides the perfect environment for relaxation, and you can unwind and enjoy peace and tranquillity by the pool.

From the hotel, it’s just an 18-minute bus ride to the ferry terminal, where you can visit the Blue Lagoon and the Gozo Islands. With more than 280 stylish rooms, suites, and exclusive deluxe suites with private pools, all with balconies or terraces, you can ensure that your stay in Malta is unforgettable.

The family suites are furnished to a high standard, with separate bedrooms and living rooms, and balconies overlooking the garden or the tranquil pool.

Photo credit: Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa

Solana Hotel & Spa

The Solana Hotel & Spa is a recently renovated 4-star hotel with 240 beautifully decorated rooms, four inviting pools, a spa, and an excellent restaurants. Immerse yourself in a wide range of wellness facilities and services or relax with panoramic views from the rooftop.

Treat yourself to a varied culinary experience in the hotel’s different restaurants and bars. Whether it’s a refreshing swim in the rooftop pool with its stunning views, or a dip in the heated indoor pool, your stay in Malta is sure to be relaxing at this hotel.

Photo credit: Solana Hotel & Spa

Victoria by Petit Chic

Where to stay in Malta for couples or solo travelers? Victoria by Petit Chic is located on a quiet street in Mellieha, just a short walk from restaurants, shops, cafés, and bus stops. The rooms are elegantly furnished and equipped with all the modern amenities, including air conditioning, a private bathroom, and Wi-Fi.

Most rooms have a balcony with stunning views of Mellieha, the sea, Comino, and Gozo. From Valletta, you can easily reach the hotel by bus, and the bus stop near the hotel offers quick access to the sandy beaches.

Photo credit: Victoria by Petit Chic

5. Quiet getaway in Malta – Gozo Island

Don’t know where to stay in Malta? Look no further. Gozo, the second largest island in Malta, is home to beautiful attractions such as Ramla Bay, Tal-Mixta Cave, Citadel, Salt Pans, and Ta’Pinu Basilica. Nature lovers can hike, take a dip in the crystal clear waters, or go scuba diving to discover the island’s rich marine life.

The island has many charming and traditional boutique hotels. Most people take a day trip to Gozo, but we recommend you spend at least 3 days on the island to enjoy the atmosphere and explore the sights. If you are coming to the island by bus, stay in Victoria or Xewkija, as buses run quite frequently and are well connected to the harbor.

Recommended post → Malta to Gozo

With its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and quaint villages, Gozo offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We enjoyed Gozo much more than Malta. It was cozier and quieter, and we wished we had stayed longer.

This island is the best place to stay in Malta if you are looking for a quiet getaway.

Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel

Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites, a babysitting service, a 24-hour front desk, a sun terrace with an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, and a shared lounge. Each luxury hotel room or suite has a grand view of the open countryside.

This boutique hotel offers couples wellness packages, including aromatherapy or Swedish massages and facials. In addition, you can enjoy a lavish brunch, afternoon tea, or a delicious cocktail by the pool. Santa Lucia is one of the best places to stay during your trip to Malta.

Photo credit: Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel

The Duke Boutique Hotel

The Duke Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of Victoria, next to Villa Rundle Gardens, and offers excellent views. The hotel is the perfect base for exploring Gozo, just 200 meters from the main bus terminal. All rooms are non-smoking and soundproofed, featuring classic contemporary design, luxurious mattresses, and pillows.

Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a mini-bar, tea and coffee-making facilities. Some rooms have a private hot tub with a terrace or Hammam with a sauna. A luxurious breakfast with local and traditional items is served daily.

Photo credit: The Duke Boutique Hotel

Murella Living

Murella Living is located in Marsalforn, just 100 meters from the sea. The hotel offers 24 uniquely designed rooms, allowing guests to experience first-hand the Gozitan culture. The rooms are air-conditioned and heated and have everything you need for a relaxing stay.

Each has a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries, LCD TV, mini-fridge, and tea and coffee-making facilities. This is probably one of the best hotels to stay in if you are traveling to Malta and want to be near the beach.

Photo credit: Murella Living

Malta: FAQ

Top Tours

Gozo & Comino Islands, Blue Lagoon & Seacaves Tour
Full-Day Gozo Jeep Tour
Mdina Full Day Tour with Lunch
Full-Day Private Tour in Malta
Street Food Walking Tour

Best time to Visit

Malta is an all-year-round destination with beautiful beaches, historic sites, charming towns, and stunning natural attractions. But the best time to visit is from May to September.

How many days do you need?

You can easily spend 5 days visiting the surrounding towns and cities, exploring the country’s rich history. You can do day trips to Comino and the island of Gozo, but if you want to explore Gozo at a comfortable pace, add an extra 2 days to your itinerary.

Where to Stay in Malta: Map of the Best Areas

We’ve categorized Malta into 5 areas to help you find the best places to stay.

We hope our post on the best areas and hotels in Malta helps you plan to choose where to stay. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.

More Travel Guides about Malta

• 9 Best Boutique Hotels in Valletta
• How to Get from Malta to Gozo
• 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Gozo

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